Hongqi, a brand under China's leading automaker FAW Group, sold 52,000 cars from January to August this year, marking a 231-percent rise year on year, FAW Group said Thursday.

Hongqi is now selling six models including two sedans, two SUVs, an EV and a customized limousine.

The company has started to sell the Hongqi E-HS3, a pure electric sport utility vehicle model, which is priced between 225,800 yuan (around 32,000 U.S. dollars) to 265,800 yuan.

To provide better services for its customers, Hongqi has built more than 100 experience centers across the country.

Hongqi sold a total of 33,028 cars in 2018.

Hongqi, meaning "red flag," is China's iconic sedan brand. The brand was established in 1958 and has been used as the vehicle for parades at national celebrations.

It plans to launch up to 17 new models by 2025, including new energy models and SUVs.

Established in 1953 in the northeastern city of Changchun, FAW was the first automaker in China. Its other brands include Jiefang and Besturn. It also has joint ventures with carmakers such as Volkswagen and Toyota.